Trusted Legal Representation After Boating Accidents on the Mississippi Gulf Coast

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident in Gulfport or anywhere along the Mississippi coast, the Gulfport boating accident lawyers at Giddens Law Firm are here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. As experienced Mississippi personal injury attorneys with over 25 years serving accident victims, we understand the challenges that arise in maritime injury cases.

From determining liability under Mississippi’s comparative negligence laws to navigating federal admiralty regulations, boating accident claims require specialized legal knowledge. Watercraft collisions, propeller injuries, and other maritime incidents occur more frequently than many realize, and you need an experienced personal injury lawyer by your side when you get into a catastrophic accident.

Attorney John Giddens, founder of Giddens Law Firm and an AV Preeminent-rated attorney, is committed to holding negligent boat operators accountable and helping injury victims recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. His comprehensive trial experience and deep understanding of complex liability issues make him well-equipped to handle the intricate legal challenges presented in maritime and boating accident cases.

Contact our boat accident attorney today to schedule a free consultation. There is no fee unless we win your case.

How Often Do Boating Accidents Occur in Gulfport, MS?

Gulfport is home to some of Mississippi’s most popular boating destinations. The Gulfport Municipal Marina, also known as the Bert Jones Yacht Basin, accommodates hundreds of recreational vessels throughout the year. With easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi Sound, and inland waterways, thousands of boaters enjoy Mississippi’s coastal waters annually.

However, increased boating activity brings increased risk. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, there were 3,887 recreational boating incidents nationwide in 2024, resulting in 556 deaths, 2,170 injuries, and approximately $88 million in property damage.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Our boating accident lawyers in Gulfport, MS frequently handle cases involving:

• Operator Inattention and Negligence: Distracted or inexperienced boat operators fail to maintain proper lookout, resulting in collisions with other vessels, fixed objects, or swimmers.
• Boating Under the Influence (BUI): Mississippi law (MS Code § 59-23-7) prohibits operating a watercraft with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks reports that alcohol remains a leading contributor to fatal boating accidents. During the 2024 Operation Dry Water campaign, Mississippi conservation officers issued 13 BUI citations among 287 total citations.
• Excessive Speed and Reckless Operation: Operating a boat at excessive speeds in crowded marina areas, near swimmers, or in designated no-wake zones creates dangerous conditions.
• Equipment Failure: Defective steering systems, engine malfunctions, or faulty safety equipment can lead to loss of control and serious accidents.
• Operator Inexperience: Many accidents involve operators who lack proper training or familiarity with Mississippi’s boating regulations.
• Propeller Strikes: According to the Coast Guard, there were 169 incidents nationwide where a propeller struck at least one person. These devastating injuries often occur when swimmers or skiers are near operating vessels.

Types of Gulfport Boating Accidents We Handle

As your Mississippi boating accident lawyer, we represent clients injured in all types of watercraft incidents:

Vessel-to-Vessel Collisions

Boat collisions frequently result in serious injuries. These cases often involve questions about right-of-way, navigation rules, and operator negligence.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accidents

Jet skis and other PWCs are involved in a disproportionate number of accidents due to their speed and maneuverability. Mississippi law requires specific safety measures for PWC operation, including mandatory life jacket use and restrictions on operation near other vessels.

Propeller Injuries

Propeller strikes cause catastrophic injuries, including deep lacerations, severed limbs, and spinal cord damage. These accidents often occur during water skiing, swimming, or when victims fall overboard.

Drowning and Near-Drowning

The Coast Guard reports that, where the cause of death was known, 76% of fatal boating incident victims drowned, and 87% of victims were not wearing a personal flotation device when drowning occurred.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Exhaust fumes accumulating near the stern or swim platform can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, leading to disorientation, unconsciousness, and death.

Charter Boat and Commercial Vessel Accidents

Accidents involving charter fishing boats, tour vessels, or other commercial watercraft may be subject to additional regulations under federal maritime law.

Mississippi Boating Laws and Regulations

Understanding Mississippi’s boating laws is crucial when investigating accident claims and establishing liability.

Boat Operator Requirements

Under Mississippi law, any person born after June 30, 1980, must complete a boating safety course approved by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) to operate a vessel legally. Additionally, persons under 12 years of age must be accompanied by someone at least 21 years old when operating a motorboat or personal watercraft.

Personal Flotation Device (PFD) Requirements

Mississippi requires that all boaters or passengers 12 years of age and younger on a vessel 26 feet in length or less must wear a Coast Guard-approved PFD while the vessel is underway. All persons on a personal watercraft must wear a Type I, II, or III PFD.

Accident Reporting Requirements

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks requires operators to file accident reports when a boating accident results in the death of any person, injury causing incapacitation for more than 24 hours, or property damage exceeding $100. Fatalities must be reported within 48 hours. Accidents resulting in injuries or property damage must be reported within five days.

Common Boating Accident Injuries

Boating accident attorneys in Gulfport, MS, regularly represent clients who have suffered:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head trauma from collisions or being thrown from vessels can cause concussions, skull fractures, and permanent cognitive impairment. Attorney Giddens is a member of the Brain Injury Litigation Group through the American Association for Justice and has extensive experience handling complex TBI cases.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Impact forces or propeller strikes may damage the spine, resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of collisions frequently causes broken ribs, arms, legs, and facial bones.
• Severe Lacerations and Cuts: Propeller blades, broken glass, and metal edges cause deep cuts requiring extensive reconstructive surgery.
• Burn Injuries: Boat fires and explosions can cause severe thermal and chemical burns.
• Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma may damage internal organs, causing internal bleeding and requiring emergency surgery.
• Wrongful Death: Fatal boating accidents devastate families and create significant financial hardship.

Determining Liability in Gulfport Boating Accidents

Establishing who is legally responsible for a boating accident requires a thorough investigation and analysis of multiple factors.

Boat Operator Negligence

In most cases, the boat operator owes a duty of care to passengers, other boaters, and individuals in the water. Operators who breach this duty through careless or reckless conduct may be held liable for resulting injuries. Common examples include:

• Operating while intoxicated
• Excessive speed for conditions
• Failure to maintain proper lookout
• Violating navigation rules or no-wake zones
• Operating without required safety equipment

Boat Owner Liability

Even when someone else is operating the vessel, boat owners may be held liable if they:

• Negligently entrusted the boat to an unqualified or intoxicated operator
• Failed to properly maintain the vessel

Product Liability

Manufacturers and sellers of defective boats, engines, or safety equipment may be held strictly liable when defects cause accidents and injuries. With his experience in product liability cases, Attorney Giddens thoroughly investigates whether equipment failures contributed to your accident.

Multiple Party Liability

Mississippi follows a pure comparative negligence rule. Under this system, even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault and your total damages are $100,000, you can recover $80,000.

Damages Available in Gulfport Boating Accident Cases

As your boat accident lawyer in Gulfport, we help clients pursue full compensation for all losses resulting from the accident, including:

Economic Damages

Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgery costs, prescription medications, physical therapy, and future medical care.

Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work during recovery.

Lost Earning Capacity: When injuries prevent you from returning to your previous occupation or limit your ability to earn income.

Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for damaged vessels, personal property, and equipment.

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and resulting injuries.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life: When injuries prevent you from participating in activities you previously enjoyed.

Disfigurement and Scarring: Permanent scarring or disfigurement caused by accident injuries.

Wrongful Death Damages

When boating accidents result in fatalities, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of the deceased’s expected earnings
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and support

Why Acting Quickly Matters in Boat Accident Cases

Mississippi law imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, certain circumstances may shorten this timeframe, and evidence can be lost or destroyed over time.

Taking prompt action allows us to:

• Preserve critical evidence, including accident reports, vessel maintenance records, and witness statements
• Document the accident scene before conditions change
• Identify all potentially liable parties
• Comply with insurance notification requirements

Why Choose Giddens Law Firm as Your Gulfport Boating Accident Lawyer

When you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost income, and an uncertain future after a boating accident, you need experienced attorney you can trust.

Since establishing Giddens Law Firm in 1999, Attorney John Giddens has successfully represented hundreds of accident victims throughout Mississippi. His track record includes serving as lead counsel in multi-million dollar cases and securing substantial settlements and verdicts for injured clients.

Deep Understanding of Maritime and Personal Injury Law

Boating accident cases involve a complex intersection of state personal injury law, federal maritime regulations, and Coast Guard rules. With over two decades of experience handling complex personal injury matters, Attorney Giddens has the specialized knowledge necessary to navigate these legal frameworks and protect our clients’ rights.

Recognized Legal Excellence

Attorney Giddens’ AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell reflects peer recognition of his exceptional legal ability and highest ethical standards. His selection to Best Lawyers in America for the past two years and consistent inclusion on the Mid-South Super Lawyers list demonstrates sustained excellence in legal practice.

Comprehensive Investigation and Case Preparation

We conduct thorough investigations, working with accident reconstruction experts, marine safety specialists, and medical professionals to build compelling cases. Our approach includes:

• Detailed accident scene investigation
• Expert witness consultation
• Comprehensive medical record review
• Analysis of vessel maintenance and operation records
• Review of weather and water conditions
• Examination of all applicable state and federal regulations

Aggressive Representation

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts to accident victims. With his experience as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer recognized by The American Trial Lawyers Association, Attorney Giddens fights aggressively to secure fair settlements that fully compensate you for your losses. While many cases settle, we’re always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.

No Recovery, No Fee

We handle boating accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. This allows you to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal costs.

Steps to Take After a Boating Accident

If you’ve been involved in a boating accident in Gulfport or anywhere on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, take these important steps:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated by medical professionals. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Report the Accident: Notify the appropriate authorities as required by Mississippi law. For accidents on state waters, contact the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
• Document Everything: If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, vessel damage, visible injuries, and weather conditions. Collect contact information from witnesses.
• Preserve Evidence: Keep all medical records, receipts, and correspondence related to the accident.
• Avoid Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters may contact you seeking recorded statements. Politely decline until you’ve consulted with an attorney.
• Contact an Experienced Boating Accident Attorney: The sooner you contact Giddens Law Firm, the better positioned you’ll be to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Sue If the Boat Operator Was a Friend or Family Member?

Yes. You can file a claim against the boat owner’s insurance policy even if the operator was someone you know. Most boat owners carry liability insurance specifically to protect against these situations. Your claim would typically be handled through their insurance company, and pursuing compensation doesn’t necessarily mean suing your friend or family member personally.

What If the Boating Accident Happened on Federal Waters vs. State Waters?

The location of the accident can significantly impact your case. Accidents in state-controlled waters (generally within three nautical miles of shore on the Gulf Coast) are governed by Mississippi state law. Accidents in federal waters may fall under federal maritime law and potentially the Jones Act if you’re a maritime worker. The distinction affects filing procedures, applicable regulations, and potential damages. We’ll determine which jurisdiction applies to your case during our investigation.

Are Rental Boat Companies Liable If Their Boats Are Defective or Poorly Maintained?

Yes. Boat rental companies have a duty to provide safe, properly maintained vessels and adequate safety equipment. If they rent out a boat with known defects, fail to conduct proper maintenance inspections, or don’t provide required safety gear, they can be held liable for resulting accidents. We can investigate the rental company’s maintenance records and safety protocols.

What Evidence Should I Preserve After the Crash?

Beyond photos of the scene, try to preserve: the clothes you were wearing, any damaged personal items, receipts for immediate expenses, the names and vessel registration numbers of all boats involved, and screenshots of weather reports from that day. If your boat was damaged, don’t make major repairs until it’s been documented and photographed. Keep a written diary of your injuries, pain levels, and how the accident affects your daily life.

How Do Boating Accident Cases Differ If They Involve a Charter or Commercial Vessel versus a Private Recreational Boat?

Commercial vessel accidents involve additional federal regulations under the Coast Guard’s commercial vessel safety standards. Charter boat operators must hold Coast Guard licenses, maintain specific insurance coverage, and follow stricter safety protocols. If you were a paying passenger on a charter boat, the captain and company owe you a higher duty of care than recreational boat operators.

Contact Our Gulfport Boating Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident in Gulfport, Biloxi, Long Beach, or anywhere along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, don’t face the insurance companies alone. The legal team at Giddens Law Firm has the knowledge, resources, and commitment to help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Attorney John Giddens and his team offer free, confidential consultations to discuss your case and explain your legal options. You’ll pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.

With offices in both Jackson and Gulfport, we’re positioned to serve clients throughout Mississippi’s coastal region. Our Gulfport office is located at 2600 13th St Suite 206, Gulfport, MS 39501.

Contact us today at 601-355-2022 to schedule your free consultation with an experienced boating accident attorney in Gulfport, MS. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.